Pied Ball Python: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Tyler Swan

Hello readers! Today, we are diving into the marvelous world of reptiles and shining the spotlight on the fascinating Pied Ball Python. This beautifully patterned creature has a rich history, unique characteristics, and a captivating habitat. Join us as we explore the history, facts, size, habitat, and classification of this mesmerizing reptile species!

Let’s start with a brief introduction to the remarkable Pied Ball Python. Known for its distinct coloration and intricate patterns, this species belongs to the family of snakes called Pythonidae. Originating from Central and West Africa, these reptiles have become quite popular among reptile enthusiasts around the world due to their striking appearance.

In terms of size, the Pied Ball Python typically grows to be around three to four feet long. Despite their small size, they have a powerful bite and should be handled with care. As for their habitat, these pythons are primarily found in grassland areas, savannahs, and even forests. They are skilled climbers and often seek refuge in trees or shrubs.

Now that we have a basic understanding of the Pied Ball Python, the next paragraphs will delve further into its rich history, intriguing facts, and classification. But before we continue, it’s worth noting that if you’re interested in learning about other reptiles, we already have an extensive article on 155+ Reptiles Name that you might find intriguing.

So, stay tuned as we embark on a mesmerizing journey into the world of the incredible Pied Ball Python, uncovering its hidden secrets, surprising facts, and its place within the reptile kingdom. Get ready to be amazed by the wonders of nature!

History of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python is a reptile that has a unique and fascinating history. These snakes are native to the forests and grasslands of West and Central Africa. They are known for their striking patterns and colors, with patches or swirls of white, yellow, and brown covering their bodies.

Throughout history, the Pied Ball Python has been admired for its beauty and has been kept as a pet by many people. In the early 1990s, a breeder named Bob Clark discovered a genetic mutation in these snakes that resulted in the unique pied pattern. This mutation caused certain parts of the snake’s skin to lack pigmentation, which created the beautiful white patches and swirls.

Since then, the popularity of Pied Ball Pythons as pets has grown tremendously. Breeders have been working to produce different variations of the pied pattern, resulting in snakes with even more unique and eye-catching coloration. Today, these snakes are highly sought after by reptile enthusiasts and can be found in many pet stores and online reptile markets.

In conclusion, the Pied Ball Python is a reptile with a rich and interesting history. Its unique coloration and patterns have made it a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts around the world. Whether you are a snake lover or simply appreciate the beauty of these creatures, the Pied Ball Python is sure to captivate your attention.

Importance of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python reptile is an important creature for many reasons. One reason is that it plays a vital role in the ecosystem where it lives. This reptile helps to control the population of small mammals and birds by hunting and eating them. Without the presence of the Pied Ball Python, these smaller animals could become overpopulated, which could cause problems for other species in the area.

Another reason why the Pied Ball Python is significant is because of its unique appearance. This reptile has a beautiful pattern of colors on its skin, with a mix of white and darker shades. This makes it a favorite among reptile enthusiasts and collectors, who appreciate its beauty and rarity. This also helps generate interest and curiosity in people, which can lead to a better understanding and appreciation of reptiles and their important role in the natural world.

Lastly, the Pied Ball Python is important for scientific research. Scientists study this reptile to learn more about its behavior, habitats, and biology. By understanding these aspects, they can gain insights into the overall health of the environment and make informed decisions about conservation efforts. The research conducted on the Pied Ball Python can also contribute to the broader field of reptile biology and help protect other threatened or endangered species.

In conclusion, the Pied Ball Python reptile is important because it helps control the population of smaller animals, has a unique and beautiful appearance, and is valuable for scientific research. This reptile reminds us of the wonders of nature and the importance of preserving and protecting our diverse wildlife.

Amazing Facts About Pied Ball Python

1. The Pied Ball Python is a small-sized reptile that belongs to the snake family and is native to central and western Africa.
2. These pythons are popular pets due to their unique and eye-catching pattern of black and white scales.
3. Unlike other ball pythons, the Pied Ball Pythons have a genetic mutation that causes partial or complete absence of pigmentation, resulting in their distinct pied (patchy) appearance.
4. Male Pied Ball Pythons usually grow to be around 3-4 feet long, while females tend to be slightly larger, ranging from 4-5 feet in length.
5. These pythons are non-venomous, meaning they don’t produce venom to capture prey or for defense.
6. Pied Ball Pythons are ambush predators, using their camouflaged patterns to blend in with their surroundings and strike at unsuspecting prey, such as small mammals and birds.
7. As nocturnal creatures, they are most active during the night and prefer to rest and hide during the day.
8. Due to their gentle nature and manageable size, Pied Ball Pythons can make suitable pets for responsible and experienced reptile keepers.
9. They require a well-maintained and properly heated habitat called a terrarium, where they can regulate their body temperature and have enough space to move around.
10. The diet of a Pied Ball Python mainly consists of rodents, such as mice or rats, which should be offered to them once every 1-2 weeks.
11. Their lifespan is typically around 20-30 years when properly cared for, so they can become long-term companions.
12. Pied Ball Pythons have a unique ability to coil up into a tight ball when feeling threatened, hence their name “ball python.”
13. Their skin sheds in one piece, and they usually shed every 6-8 weeks to accommodate their growing bodies.
14. In the wild, Pied Ball Pythons live in often humid and grassy areas, such as savannas or forest edges.
15. As captive pets, they are generally docile creatures and don’t require much interaction, but should still be handled with care and respect to prevent stress or injury.

Can we keep Pied Ball Python as our Pet?

Yes, we can keep a Pied Ball Python reptile as a pet. The Pied Ball Python is a very beautiful and interesting snake with unique patterns on its body. It is a popular choice among reptile enthusiasts because of its docile nature and manageable size. They make great pets for people who are responsible and willing to provide them with the proper care.

However, it is important to note that the Pied Ball Python is not an endangered species. They are commonly found in their natural habitat in West Africa. Therefore, there are no restrictions on keeping them as pets. It is important to acquire them from authorized and reputable breeders to ensure their well-being and minimize the impact on their wild populations.

Unfortunately, some reptiles have become extinct due to various reasons like habitat loss, climate change, and illegal hunting. If a reptile species is extinct, it means that it no longer exists in the world. We cannot keep them as pets because they cannot be found anymore. Extinction is a very sad event, and it is crucial that we take necessary measures to protect and conserve the remaining reptile species to prevent further extinctions.

In conclusion, keeping a Pied Ball Python as a pet is possible, as they are not an endangered species. However, we should always be responsible pet owners and obtain them from legitimate sources. It is also important to be aware of the endangered status of some reptiles and take steps to preserve their populations for future generations.

Size of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python is a type of reptile that is quite small in size. It usually grows to be around 2 to 4 feet long, which is about the same size as a ruler or a baseball bat. This makes them easy to handle and care for, especially for beginners who are new to owning reptiles as pets.

On average, the Pied Ball Python weighs around 2 to 4 pounds, which is about the same weight as a bag of flour or a small watermelon. They have a slender body and are known for their beautiful color patterns, which make them a popular choice among reptile enthusiasts. Their small size also means that they require less space compared to larger reptiles, making it easier for owners to provide them with the necessary habitat.

Despite their small size, Pied Ball Pythons can live for a long time, often reaching 20 to 30 years of age when properly cared for. This means that they can be lifelong companions for those who choose to have them as pets. It’s important to note that while they are small, they still require a suitable habitat with proper temperature, humidity, and hiding spots. Ensuring a comfortable environment for the Pied Ball Python is crucial for its health and well-being.

In summary, the Pied Ball Python is a small reptile that grows to be around 2 to 4 feet long and weighs about 2 to 4 pounds. They have a beautiful color pattern and can live for a long time with proper care. Despite their small size, they still need a suitable living environment to thrive.

Habitat of Pied Ball Python

The pied ball python reptile lives in various habitats across parts of Africa. These habitats can include grasslands, savannas, and forests. They prefer areas with lots of vegetation and hiding spots like fallen trees or dense vegetation. These snakes are not very good climbers, so they spend most of their time on the ground.

Pied ball pythons like to live in places that are warm and humid. They require a temperature range of 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. They also need a humidity level of around 50-60% to stay healthy. To achieve these conditions, they may burrow into the ground or seek shelter under rocks or logs.

In their natural habitat, pied ball pythons are often found near water sources like streams or rivers. They rely on these water sources to drink and keep their bodies hydrated. Additionally, these snakes are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. They have excellent camouflage, which helps them hide from potential predators such as birds or larger mammals.

Overall, the pied ball python reptile thrives in warm, humid environments with plenty of vegetation and hiding spots. They prefer to live on the ground and near sources of water. Creating similar conditions in captivity is crucial for the health and well-being of these amazing reptiles.

Evolution of Pied Ball Python

The pied ball python reptile has gone through an amazing evolutionary journey over time. These reptiles first appeared millions of years ago, along with other snake species. They originally had simpler features and colors, blending in with their natural surroundings to stay safe from predators. As the years went by, these pythons started developing new traits that set them apart.

One major change in the evolution of the pied ball python reptile was their distinctive appearance. The original pythons were mostly plain and had no pattern or color variations. However, over time, a genetic mutation occurred that caused a random patch of white color to show up on their scales. This mutation stood out significantly from the regular dark or brownish coloration, making these pythons look unique and captivating.

Alongside their visual transformation, pied ball pythons also went through changes in their behavior. While their ancestors were nocturnal hunters, the evolution of pied pythons guided them towards becoming docile creatures. This temperament shift made them more suitable to be kept as pets, as they became less aggressive and easier to handle. Their calm nature and eye-catching appearance quickly gained them popularity among reptile enthusiasts around the world.

In summary, the evolution of the pied ball python reptile has been an incredible process that led to the development of their distinct appearance and gentle disposition. From their plain and camouflaged ancestors, they transformed into stunning creatures with white patches on their scales. Their shift in behavior also made them popular as pet reptiles. This evolution showcases the wonders of nature and how even the smallest genetic changes can produce such fascinating results.

Classification of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python is a type of reptile that belongs to the family called Pythonidae. Within this family, the Pied Ball Python is classified under the species Python regius. These reptiles are commonly found in the western parts of Africa, particularly in countries like Ghana, Benin, Togo, and Nigeria. They are loved by many reptile enthusiasts because of their unique and striking appearance.

The Pied Ball Python gets its name from its distinct coloration. It has a beautiful pattern of light patches on a dark background, resembling a piebald or pied pattern. This characteristic makes them very popular among reptile owners. In addition to their mesmerizing appearance, Pied Ball Pythons are also known for their small size. They are relatively smaller compared to other species of pythons, growing up to around 3 to 4 feet in length.

Regarding its physical features, the Pied Ball Python has a stocky body with a triangular head and smooth scales. They have a fascinating ability to retract their limbs and head inside their body, which helps them to protect themselves from potential threats. These reptiles are also non-venomous, relying on their strong coils to catch and constrict their prey before swallowing it whole.

To sum up, the Pied Ball Python reptile is classified under the species Python regius and belongs to the family Pythonidae. They are native to western Africa and are known for their striking and unique piebald coloration. These reptiles have a small size, reaching approximately 3 to 4 feet in length, and possess remarkable features such as the ability to retract their limbs and head. They are non-venomous and use constriction as their hunting technique.

Different Types of Pied Ball Python

1. Albino: This type of pied ball python has a complete lack of pigmentation, giving them a beautiful white and yellow appearance. They are highly sought after for their unique coloration.

2. Pastel: These pied ball pythons have a base coloration of bright yellow and brown, with patches of white. They are popular among reptile enthusiasts for their vibrant and eye-catching appearance.

3. Cinnamon: The cinnamon pied ball python has a unique light brown coloration, with scattered patches of white. These pythons are famous for their earthy tones and make an interesting addition to any reptile collection.

4. Mojave: Known for their stunning silver and white coloration, these pied ball pythons have a mesmerizing appearance. The combination of light and dark patterns creates a distinct and elegant look.

5. Black Pastel: These pied ball pythons have a black base color and patches of light yellow and white. Their contrasting colors give them a striking appearance and are highly popular among snake enthusiasts.

6. Spider: The spider pied ball python displays a spider-like pattern with a creamy white and caramel coloration. This unique pattern has made them a favorite choice among reptile lovers.

7. Enchi: Enchi pied ball pythons feature a vibrant yellow and brown coloration with patches of white. Their bright colors and unique pattern are often admired by reptile enthusiasts.

8. Lesser: Lesser pied ball pythons have a pale brown or tan base coloration with patches of white. They are highly desired for their unique and visually appealing appearance.

9. Super Stripe: This type of pied ball python has a distinct stripe pattern, with white-colored patches over a brown or black base. Their striped appearance makes them a popular choice among reptile collectors.

10. Banana: The banana pied ball python has a beautiful combination of vibrant yellow and white coloration. Their unique color pattern and striking appearance make them one of the most sought-after types of pied ball pythons.

These varying types of pied ball pythons attract snake enthusiasts due to their specific colorations and patterns. Each type has its unique characteristics, making them fascinating pets for reptile lovers.

Geographical Presence of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python is found in the central and western regions of Africa. This reptile can be found in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, Benin, and Togo. These regions provide the ideal habitat for the Pied Ball Python, with their warm and tropical climates, dense forests, and grasslands. People who live in these areas might come across the Pied Ball Python in their natural environment.

On the other hand, the Pied Ball Python is not found in regions outside of Africa. It is not commonly seen in other continents like Europe, Asia, or the Americas. This is mainly because the reptile is native to the African continent and is well adapted to its specific environment. Therefore, if you live in any other part of the world, you would not come across the Pied Ball Python in its natural habitat.

In conclusion, the Pied Ball Python is primarily found in the central and western regions of Africa, particularly in countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, Benin, and Togo. It is not found in other regions around the world. The reptile prefers the tropical climate, dense forests, and grasslands that these areas provide.

Scientific Name of Pied Ball Python

The scientific name of the Pied Ball Python reptile is Python regius. The term “Python” refers to the genus of large, non-venomous snakes, while “regius” indicates that this particular snake is commonly known as the royal python.

The Pied Ball Python is a reptile that belongs to the Pythonidae family. It gets its name from its distinctive skin pattern, which features a piebald or pied pattern of white and dark colors. This unique coloration gives it a beautiful and eye-catching appearance.

Like other ball pythons, the Pied Ball Python is native to the grasslands and savannas of West and Central Africa. It is a relatively small snake, usually growing to a length of around 3 to 5 feet. The species is known for being docile and easy to handle, making it a popular choice as a pet reptile.

In summary, the scientific name of the Pied Ball Python reptile is Python regius. This fascinating creature has a distinct pied pattern and is native to Africa. It is often sought after as a pet due to its gentle nature and manageable size.

Diet of Pied Ball Python

The diet of a Pied Ball Python reptile is very important for its health and well-being. These reptiles are carnivores, which means they eat meat. Their primary food source in the wild is rodents, such as mice and rats. In captivity, it is essential to provide them with a similar diet to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients.

When feeding a Pied Ball Python, it is essential to offer them appropriately sized prey items. The size of the prey should be about the same width as the widest part of the reptile’s body. Offering prey that is too large can be dangerous and may cause health issues. Younger snakes will eat smaller prey, while adults will require bigger meals.

It is important to provide a varied diet for the Pied Ball Python to ensure they receive a good balance of nutrients. Along with mice and rats, you can also offer them other small mammals like gerbils or hamsters. It is recommended to feed them frozen and thawed prey, as it is safer and more convenient. In the wild, they may also eat birds or lizards, but these are not commonly available as food for captive snakes.

To summarize, the diet of a Pied Ball Python consists mainly of mice and rats, but can also include other small mammals. It is important to offer them appropriately sized prey, and a variety of food to provide a balanced diet. Feeding them frozen and thawed prey is a safe and convenient option. Remember, taking care of their diet will help keep these reptiles healthy and happy.

Locomotion of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python is a type of reptile that moves in a special way called locomotion. Locomotion is just a fancy word for how animals move their bodies. The Pied Ball Python moves by slithering, which means it slides along on its belly. Unlike animals with legs, like cats or dogs, pythons don’t have any limbs to help them move around!

To slither, the Pied Ball Python uses its powerful muscles to push off the ground. It moves its body in a wavy motion, like a snake, to propel itself forward. This way of moving is very important for the python because it helps it catch its prey, such as mice or small birds. The python can sneak up silently and quickly pounce on its food using its slithering locomotion. It may not have legs, but the Pied Ball Python can still get around with its impressive slithering skills!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Pied Ball Python

Pied Ball Pythons have interesting social behavior. These reptiles are mostly solitary, which means they prefer to live alone. They don’t gather or socialize with other pythons like some animals do. Instead, they spend most of their time hiding in grasslands or forests, searching for food and staying safe from predators. Although they may not hang out together, they do communicate with each other in their own snakey way. They use smells, sounds, and body movements to send messages to other pythons nearby.

When it comes to sexual behavior, pied ball pythons are not too different from other pythons. During the mating season, which usually occurs in the spring or early summer, males and females will travel and search for a partner. The males will try to impress the females by displaying their vibrant and beautiful colors. They will also engage in a behavior called “courtship,” where they dance or rub against each other. If the female is interested, she will allow the male to mate with her. After mating, the female will lay eggs, which she will then protect until they hatch into baby pythons.

In summary, pied ball pythons prefer to live alone and don’t socialize much with other pythons. However, they do use different ways to communicate with each other. During the mating season, males and females engage in courtship behavior, and if successful, the female will lay eggs. These reptiles have their unique ways of living and reproducing, making them fascinating creatures to learn about.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python is a type of reptile that can reproduce and go through a life cycle just like other snakes. When it comes to reproduction, the male Pied Ball Python mates with the female by inserting one of his hemipenes (special reproductive organs) into the female’s cloaca (an opening used for reproduction and waste). This process is called mating. After mating, the female will lay eggs, usually in a warm and secure place. She will then coil around the eggs to protect them until they are ready to hatch.

The eggs will take some time to develop and eventually hatch into baby Pied Ball Pythons. This process is known as the incubation period. The eggs must be kept at a specific temperature and humidity for the babies to develop properly. During this time, it is important to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the mother and her eggs.

Once the eggs hatch, the baby Pied Ball Pythons are on their own. They will start their life cycle as tiny and vulnerable hatchlings. They rely on their instincts to hunt for food and avoid predators. As they grow, they shed their skin several times, a process called molting. This allows them to grow bigger and stronger. As they reach maturity, usually around 2-3 years old, they will be able to reproduce and continue the life cycle of the Pied Ball Python.

In summary, the Pied Ball Python reproduces by mating, with the female laying eggs and protecting them until they hatch. The babies then go through a life cycle of growth, shedding, and maturing to eventually reproduce themselves. It is fascinating to observe how these reptiles go through their life cycle, ensuring the survival of their species.

Threats to Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python reptile is a beautiful and unique creature, but unfortunately, it faces several threats in the wild. One of the main threats is habitat loss. As humans continue to expand their cities and towns, the natural habitats of these snakes are being destroyed. This means they have less space to live, find food, and breed.

Another threat to Pied Ball Pythons is the illegal pet trade. Some people capture these snakes from the wild and sell them as pets. This is not only harmful to the snakes, as they are taken away from their natural environment, but it also contributes to the decline of their population in the wild. It is important for people to remember that these reptiles belong in the wild and should not be kept as pets unless proper care can be provided.

Climate change is also becoming a threat to the Pied Ball Python. As the climate shifts and becomes less suitable for their survival, these snakes may struggle to adapt. They require specific temperature and humidity levels to thrive, and if these conditions change drastically, it could negatively impact their population.

In conclusion, the Pied Ball Python reptile faces threats such as habitat loss, the illegal pet trade, and climate change. It is crucial for us to recognize the importance of protecting these unique creatures and their natural habitats. By raising awareness about these threats, we can work towards ensuring the survival and well-being of the Pied Ball Python.

Population of Pied Ball Python

The Pied Ball Python is a type of reptile that is a variation of the regular Ball Python. While there is no exact figure for the population of Pied Ball Pythons, it is believed that they are relatively rare in the wild.

These reptiles are popular among snake enthusiasts and are often bred in captivity. This is because their unique pattern of colorful patches makes them highly desirable as pets. However, due to the popularity of breeding and the limited number of Pied Ball Pythons in the wild, their population is not as abundant as other types of snakes.

In recent years, there has been concern about the declining population of various snake species, including the Pied Ball Python. Habitat loss, illegal hunting, and the pet trade have all contributed to the endangerment of these reptiles. If the Pied Ball Python were to go extinct, it would be a great loss to biodiversity as it is a beautiful and unique species of snake.

In summary, the population of the Pied Ball Python is relatively small, and there is no exact figure available. Due to the high demand for these reptiles as pets, their population in the wild is at risk. Steps need to be taken to protect and conserve them to prevent their extinction in the future.

Conclusion

In summary, the Pied Ball Python is a fascinating reptile that has captivated the interest of many due to its unique appearance and interesting characteristics. This species of snake is known for its beautiful and distinct coloration, which is a result of a genetic variation called pied. This variation can cause patches of white or light-colored scales to appear on the snake’s body, creating a mesmerizing pattern.

Pied Ball Pythons are native to the humid forests and grasslands of West Africa. They are a small to medium-sized reptile, usually reaching an average length of 3 to 5 feet. These snakes are non-venomous and constrict their prey to subdue it before swallowing it whole. They mainly feed on small mammals, such as mice and rats.

In terms of classification, the Pied Ball Python belongs to the reptile family called Pythonidae, which includes other snake species as well. These pythons are popular pets among reptile enthusiasts due to their docile nature and their striking appearance. However, it is important to provide them with a suitable habitat that mimics their natural environment to ensure their well-being.

Overall, the Pied Ball Python is a fascinating reptile with a rich history and interesting facts. As one of the many reptile species in the world, it serves as a reminder of the incredible diversity found in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pied Ball Python (FAQ’s)

Q1: What is a Pied Ball Python?
A1: A Pied Ball Python is a reptile that belongs to the Ball Python species, characterized by its distinct piebald (white) and normal coloration patterns.

Q2: How big do Pied Ball Pythons grow?
A2: On average, adult Pied Ball Pythons grow to be around 3 to 5 feet long.

Q3: What is the lifespan of a Pied Ball Python?
A3: With proper care, Pied Ball Pythons can live for about 20 to 30 years in captivity.

Q4: Do Pied Ball Pythons make good pets?
A4: Yes, they are popular pets due to their calm temperament and beautiful coloration.

Q5: Are Pied Ball Pythons venomous?
A5: No, Pied Ball Pythons are non-venomous snakes.

Q6: What do Pied Ball Pythons eat?
A6: They primarily eat small rodents such as mice and rats.

Q7: How often do Pied Ball Pythons need to be fed?
A7: Juvenile Pied Ball Pythons should be fed every 5-7 days, while adults can be fed every 10-14 days.

Q8: Can Pied Ball Pythons be handled?
A8: Yes, with regular handling, Pied Ball Pythons can become quite docile and tolerate human interaction.

Q9: Do Pied Ball Pythons require any special heating or lighting?
A9: Pied Ball Pythons require a warm side of the enclosure with a temperature gradient ranging from 85-88°F (29-31°C) and a cool side around 78-80°F (25-27°C). They also need a day-night light cycle consisting of 12-14 hours of light and 10-12 hours of darkness.

Q10: Can Pied Ball Pythons live together in the same enclosure?
A10: Pied Ball Pythons should be housed alone, as they can become territorial and aggressive towards other snakes.

Q11: How often do Pied Ball Pythons shed their skin?
A11: They shed their skin every 4-8 weeks, depending on their growth rate.

Q12: Are Pied Ball Pythons easily stressed?
A12: They can be sensitive to stress, so their enclosure should be set up in a way that provides hiding spots and security.

Q13: What is the difference between a normal Ball Python and a Pied Ball Python?
A13: A normal Ball Python has a consistent coloration pattern, while a Pied Ball Python has patches of white on its body.

Q14: Are Pied Ball Pythons hard to find or expensive?
A14: Pied Ball Pythons are relatively rare and can be more expensive than other Ball Python morphs due to their distinctive appearance.

Q15: Are Pied Ball Pythons active during the day or night?
A15: They are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are more active during the night.

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